Why Board Certification in Craniofacial Plastic Surgery is Important When Looking for a Surgeon

craniofacial plastic surgery

Considering plastic surgery? If you are looking for a surgeon to consult with you on a specific procedure, it’s important to find someone you feel comfortable with and trust. Even more important, however, is to ensure that you choose a doctor who is board certified in craniofacial plastic surgery. Read on to learn more about this certification and what it entails.

In the United States, plastic surgeons must be board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. This certification is only given to physicians who have graduated from an accredited medical school and completed a five-year residency program accredited by either the Accreditation Council for Medical Education or the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. As part of this residency program, a minimum of two full years must be devoted specifically to the study of plastic surgery. Once residency is completed, the surgeon must pass both oral and written exams to be board certified, and maintain this certification by completing a certain number of CME (continuing medical education) credits each year.

Why is this so important? Board certification in craniofacial plastic surgery ensures that the doctor you choose has the most updated education in all the procedures that comprise this specialty, and that his or her medical school education was from a reputable institution. Doctors without these credentials may not be using the most trusted methods that are backed by clinical research, may not have passed their certification exams, and may not have completed a reputable medical school degree or residency program.

In addition to choosing a surgeon who is board certified in craniofacial plastic surgery, you should also look for one who specializes in the specific procedure you’re interested in having. Find out how many times he or she has performed this procedure, where and when training for this specific procedure was done, and whether any complications or problems have arisen with his or her patients. 

Also, consider looking for a doctor who is a member of the American Society of Craniofacial Surgery. Doctors who obtain membership must have at least 12 months of training in this specialty, be board certified in plastic surgery, have been in active practice in this specialty for at least three years, and have made substantial contributions to the field, including at least two published research papers.

While plastic surgery is a serious undertaking, choosing the right doctor can help ensure that your procedure is successful.

Located in Utah, Steven Warnock, a board certified plastic surgeon, specializes in craniofacial surgery. With his extensive training and knowledge, he would be happy to speak with you regarding your concerns and goals. Contact Steven Warnock today for your consultation. You can rest assured knowing a board certified plastic surgeon has your best interest in mind.